For decades KNO/IFNAE have been at the forefront of implementing rigorous and effective performance improvement methodologies in capacity building programs for a variety of donor-funded international development initiatives worldwide. A paramount element of their success has been the initial performance assessment conducted to diagnose institutional needs, determine root causes and define recommended solutions. After replicating their success with a variety of stakeholders across many countries and continents to conduct these assessments, KNO/IFNAE have refined their approach, methods, and tools to form the foundation for a rigorous certification program.